Greece launches largest-ever employment subsidy scheme

The Ministry of Labor and Social Security of Greece is launching the largest employment and work experience subsidy program ever implemented in the country’s history, through the Public Employment Service (DYPA), according to an official announcement.

The program aims to create approximately 50,000 new jobs for unemployed individuals aged 30 and over, CE Report quotes ANA-MPA.

With a total budget of €220 million, the initiative targets unemployment rates among people aged 30 and above — particularly long-term unemployed individuals (those registered as unemployed for at least 24 months), unemployed women, middle-aged job seekers (45–64 years old), and those affected by or at risk of poverty, including recipients of the Minimum Guaranteed Income.

Through this program, social cohesion will be strengthened and equal access to the labor market promoted, while unemployed individuals over 30 will gain work experience through six-month placements in private-sector companies.

“The reduction of unemployment to 8.1%, the lowest rate in 17 years, is the result of systematic and targeted efforts. However, we are not complacent. We continue to intensify our initiatives with significant programs like this one, which aims to provide professional experience to 50,000 unemployed people — the size of an entire city — to further boost employment and the labor market,” said Minister of Labor and Social Security Niki Kerameus.

“We stand by our citizens, supporting groups such as long-term unemployed, middle-aged job seekers, unemployed women, and those living in or near poverty. We listen to their needs and help them re-enter the workforce with concrete action.”

Beneficiaries will work for six months in private-sector companies.

The program is funded through the EU’s 2021–2027 Partnership Agreement (ESPA) under the “Human Resources and Social Cohesion” program. Applications from interested businesses will remain open until the allocated budget is fully utilized.

The participation process is as follows:

Unemployed individuals are referred to the program with a recommendation from employment counselors at the relevant Employment Promotion Centers.

Companies apply through Gov.gr, specifying the desired specialty and educational level of candidates for the work experience positions.

DYPA (Public Employment Service) will manage company applications, match candidates to positions, and handle compensation payments.

The registration platform is expected to go live within the week.

ΦΩΤΟ ΑΡΧΕΙΟΥ